Troops Rescue 33 Passengers Abducted By Terrorists In Zamfara

Troops of the Joint Task Force North West, Operation FANSAN YAMMA, have rescued 33 passengers abducted by terrorists along the Magazu area of Tsafe Local Government Area in Zamfara State.

The rescue, which occurred late Saturday August 8, 2026, followed credible intelligence and a swift response by troops of Sector 2 of the Joint Task Force working in conjunction with personnel of the Nigeria Police Force deployed in Tsafe.

This was disclosed in a statement issued on Sunday morning by the Media Information Officer of the Joint Task Force, Lieutenant Colonel Aliyu Danja.

According to him, the troops received information in the late afternoon that terrorists had abducted commuters travelling through the Magazu axis.

He said the troops immediately mobilised to the location and made contact with the terrorists who were already moving the victims to an unknown destination.

“On sighting the troops, the terrorists opened fire. The troops responded with effective firepower, forcing the terrorists to abandon the victims and flee into adjoining bushes. All 33 abducted persons were secured and rescued unhurt,” Danja stated.

He added that following the rescue, troops commenced exploitation of the general area and have sustained efforts to track and apprehend the fleeing terrorists.

The Theatre Commander, Operation FANSAN YAMMA, commended the troops for their prompt response and professionalism, which ensured the safe rescue of all passengers without any casualty.

He reiterated the resolve of the Theatre Command to protect innocent citizens, deny terrorists freedom of action, and safeguard major transportation routes across the North West.

The Command also urged members of the public to remain vigilant and to promptly provide credible information on the activities and movements of terrorists and other criminal elements to security agencies.